Solvent-Based Versus Solventless Extraction Methods Spark Health and Safety Debate Across Cannabis Sector

As the cannabis industry matures, consumers seeking premium extracts are becoming more aware—and more selective—about how their concentrates are produced. With health, purity, and sustainability at the forefront, the extraction debate has become a defining conversation for marijuana processors and regulators alike.

Global Cannabis Extracts Market Surges as Consumers Scrutinize Processing Techniques

According to Grand View Research, the global cannabis extracts market was valued at $4.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to expand at a 20% compound annual growth rate, reaching $15.5 billion by 2030. As demand for high-quality extracts grows, so does the pressure on businesses to adopt safer, cleaner methods.

Supporters Point to Efficiency and High Yields, While Critics Warn of Health Risks

Solvent-based methods, including the use of alcohol, CO₂, butane, and propane, remain a dominant force in extraction. These chemicals dissolve the cannabis trichomes to release potent cannabinoids and terpenes, with residual solvents removed post-extraction. Critics warn of lingering hydrocarbons, but industry professionals say current post-processing standards are designed to minimize risks.

Michael Sassano, CEO of Portugal’s Somai Pharmaceuticals, defends hydrocarbon extraction as one of the most effective methods available. “You get higher yields, higher purity, and more abundance of terpenes,” he said.

Heat, Pressure, and Water-Based Methods Offer Cleaner Alternatives for Purists

Solventless extraction—using water, pressure, agitation, or heat—avoids chemical solvents entirely and is widely considered to be a cleaner, safer approach. Techniques like ice-water hash and rosin pressing are favored for producing purer products with fewer contaminants.

Darwin Millard of Cannabis Safety & Quality emphasized that the consumption method should influence the extraction process.

Stainless Steel Screens, Proper Equipment, and Quality Input Material Are Critical for Clean Extracts

While some, like Friesen, tout CO₂ as a “solventless solvent” due to its clean residue profile, others like Millard champion mechanical methods—so long as equipment materials, like screens, are stainless steel rather than plastic.

The industry is steadily moving toward stainless steel equipment, which improves safety and reduces risk of plastic contamination.

Companies Must Ensure Equipment Quality and Safe Working Conditions for Employees

Beyond the extract itself, the devices used to deliver cannabis oil—such as vape cartridges—can leach heavy metals or other toxic materials into the product. Ferguson warned that poorly manufactured ceramics and metal components may pose unseen risks to consumers.

Worker safety is also a concern. While solventless extraction is seen as the safest for employees, solvent-based methods using ethanol, hydrocarbons, or CO₂ can carry the risk of fires or explosions. Though rare, incidents still occur. In January, an explosion at PharmaCann’s Maryland facility injured two workers during a butane- and propane-based extraction.

As cannabis extraction technology and regulations continue to evolve, consumers and businesses alike are navigating the balance between potency, purity, efficiency, and safety—raising the stakes for innovation and responsibility in the growing global extracts market.